THERE was a time when elections were more than sound bites on television and radio.

People used to be mobilised to fight for the cause they backed.

When politicians spoke, people listened, and elections were regarded as an event.

These pictures from our files give a flavour of those far-off times.

Pictures

Top - Labour's children: The prevailing political view was obvious in Kent Street, Farnworth, in February, 1950. Residents had been busy decorating the street with party slogans, banners and bunting.

Left - Holding forth: I would imagine this bit of soap box oratory was taking place in the 1940s or 1950s.

Right - Post-war battle: It was June, 1945, and the local Liberals were keen to get their message over strongly.